£10m boost for business hub regeneration projects

Four communities are to receive a share of £10 million from the Scottish Government to deliver a variety of business infrastructure projects.

Announced in the Programme for Government, the money from Local Economic Development fund will be split between Clackmannanshire (£2m), Fife (£2.7m), Hawick (£3.625m) and Irvine (£1.675m).

Projects include an enterprise hub in Kincardine, small industrial workshops, spaces for small and growing businesses as well as a new industrial business space in the Irvine Enterprise Area.

Minister for business, innovation and energy, Paul Wheelhouse, said: “As was made clear in the Programme for Government, we wanted to introduce measures to boost business confidence and keep our economy moving. I’m pleased to now be able to confirm the four areas that will receive a share of the £10 million, I have no doubt that these projects will help to drive our economy and provide a real benefit to people across the country.

“In the wake of the EU referendum, we have committed to protecting Scotland’s interests, particularly our economic interests. We have been working to ensure that money reaches businesses, communities and individuals where it is most needed. Local businesses can be the engines of our economy and strong local economies are crucial to our success.”